Level 2 Hair Professional Apprenticeship

Hair Professional Apprenticeship (Level 2)

Wanting to learn a wide range of hair techniques that will have you cutting, styling, and creating a variety of looks? If this sounds your style of career, read more to learn how the level 2 hair professional apprenticeship will see you develop as a hairdresser or barber. Provide yourself with the communication, professionalism, and styling skills to care for all clients – also the eligibility for state registration with the Hair Council.

Entry Requirements and Qualifications of Level 2 Hair Professional Apprenticeship

The good news is there are no entry requirements to start your level 2 hair professional apprenticeship. If you do not have a level 1 English and maths qualification you will need to take these tests prior to your end point assessment. If your primary language is BSL then a British Sign Language qualification is an alternative to an English one. For apprentices with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, entry level 3 is the minimum requirement. Over the 24 months of the apprenticeship (not including end point assessment), you will complete the core skills and knowledge for hairdressing and barbering and will choose an occupational route. By the end of the apprenticeship, you will have a Level 2 Diploma for Hair Professionals (Hairdressing/Barbering).

Part 1: Mandatory Core Skills and Knowledge

The knowledge and skills you will learn throughout the apprenticeship includes the professionalism and values which will enable you to demonstrate time and self-management, adhering to industry codes of practice and ethics, quality assurance systems and being able to complete tasks to a high standard. You will learn to meet the industry standards by greeting clients and communicating in the most appropriate way to maintain a rapport. Where necessary the hair professional apprentice will take on wider salon duties such as reception, taking payments and making appointments. The apprentice will understand the Sales of Goods and Services Act.

Also the role involves learning to maintain hygienic and safe working methods when using equipment, products, and when cleaning the workplace. The skills to assess the client’s requirements and identify hair characteristics and classification will be learnt. Subsequently the hair professional apprentice can advise clients on services or products and conduct any visual and necessary tests on the hair, skin, and scalp.

Part 2: Hair Professional Apprenticeship Occupational Routes

The apprentice will have the choice between the two following occupational routes: Hairdressing or Barbering

Route 1: Hairdressing

The apprentice will learn, understand, and be able to competently demonstrate the following skills:

  • Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp
  • Cut hair using a range of techniques to create a variety of looks
  • Style and finish hair using a variety of techniques
  • Use a range of techniques to colour and lighten hair

Then choose one of the following

  • Perming hair
  • Hair relaxing treatments and techniques
  • Hair extension services

Route 2: Barbering

The apprentice will learn, understand, and be able to competently demonstrate the following skills:

  • Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp
  • Create a variety of looks by cutting hair using barbering techniques
  • Style and finish men’s hair
  • Cut facial hair into shape
  • Learn shaving services

Conclusion

If this sounds like your dream job role or the perfect opportunity to develop your skillset, there is literally nothing stopping you from starting your level 2 hair professional apprentice. Cover all the core skills and knowledge to grow your career before choosing an occupational route which is your style. This is the perfect way to kickstart your career in the hair industry. The opportunity to learn something completely new that develops your organisation, creativity and customer care is yours.

If you are interested in learning about the progression opportunities in different sectors, please get in touch or read about the occupational maps for more information.